linger
verb (used without object)
to remain or stay on in a place longer than is usual or expected, as if from reluctance to leave.
was lingering
-
past progressiveof linger.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Another negative was lingering suspicion over the 2015 diesel scandal, when Volkswagen admitted to cheating on U.S. emissions tests.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 2, 2026
And, after Ohtani sat out the opening month of his sophomore season while rehabilitating the injury, there was lingering uncertainty over what he could do at the plate.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 26, 2024
International observers have said the 2016 satellite seemed to be under control, but there was lingering debate over whether it had sent any transmissions.
From Reuters ● Aug. 23, 2023
When I was lingering in the worst parts of my brain, sidewalk fossils dislodged me.
From New York Times ● Jan. 31, 2023
She jerked her head to the back booth where the wispy girl was lingering at Mary Alice’s table.
From "A Long Way from Chicago" by Richard Peck
